Media & Public Relations Strategist

We're strong, innovative and growing. In a company with such a long and storied history, this may be the most exciting and important time to be a part of Northwestern Mutual.

We invest in our people. We provide opportunities for employees to grow themselves, their career and in turn, our business.

We care. We make a positive difference in our communities. Nationally, thousands have benefitted from our support of research and programs to fight childhood cancer. Each year, our Foundation, employees and financial representatives donate time, talent and financial support to causes they're passionate about.

Summary:

Develops and manages external communication programs, initiatives, and campaigns that support Northwestern Mutual's marketing and communications priorities and business outcomes.

Primary Duties & Responsibilities:

• Develops and executes communication strategies and tactics to elevate the reputation of Northwestern Mutual and its financial advisors and offices.

• Leads all elements of media relations efforts in key geographic markets, including cultivating relationships with media, messaging development, media training, organizing press conferences, etc.

• Provides PR counsel to business partners and agency partners.

• Builds external understanding and support of Northwestern Mutual's planning approach through media relations in local, regional, trade and national media.

• Drives thought leadership content development and related social media strategy and execution at the local market level.

• Works in close collaboration with marketing and communications teammates to deliver content across audiences.

Qualifications:

• At least six years of dynamic experience in professional communication, public relations, organizational communication, marketing, training or related communication field.

• Bachelor's degree in communication, journalism, public relations, marketing or social sciences.

• Emphasis on specialized knowledge of public relations, media relations, and issues management.

• Experience in corporate financial communications and/or retail investment products communications.

• Proactive professional who has ability to build rapport with business partners and colleagues, provide counsel, and develop productive working relationships at all levels

• Versatility to learn about and work with a variety of business areas and topics

• Demonstrate exceptional presentation, writing, and analytical skills, including experience writing strategic plans and detailed message materials (press materials, talking points, etc.)

• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to manage relationships and communicate effectively by phone, email, and in-person

• Ability to listen to, engage, and influence business partners throughout the company; synthesize and relate complex information; analyze problems and opportunities; and develop and drive external communication strategies and tactics.

• Ability to counsel business partners in the appropriate use of communication strategies and tactics to inform and influence target audiences (e.g., clients, prospects, key influencers, financial representatives, employees, and other partners or stakeholders).

• Solid experience using digital and social media as a lead element and experience in providing direction for content creation.

• Displays strong results in both national and regional media relations.

• Strong understanding of PR metrics and analysis.

• Ability to work with and guide PR firms; you are able to work with and lead teams and others virtually in regional markets throughout the country.

• Embodies polished organizational, decision-making and problem-solving skills.

Benefits:

Great pay package, 401K, Company sponsored retirement plan, Educational assistance, Performance based incentive pay, Medical, dental and vision insurance, Parental leave, Caregiver time off....and more

#LI-Hybrid

Northwestern Mutual pays on a geographic-specific salary structure and placement in the salary range for this position will be determined by a number of factors including the skills, education, training, credentials and experience of the candidate; the scope, complexity as well as the cost of labor in the market; and other conditions of employment. At Northwestern Mutual, it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the range for their role and compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case. Please note that the salary range listed in the posting is the standard pay structure. Positions in certain locations (such as California) may provide an increase on the standard pay structure based on the location. Please c lick here for additional information relating to location-based pay structures.

We are an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, age or status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law.

If you work or would be working in California, Colorado, New York City, Washington or outside of a Corporate location, please click here for information pertaining to compensation and benefits.

We're excited about the potential people bring to Northwestern Mutual. You can grow your career here while enjoying first-class perks, benefits, and commitment to diversity and inclusion.

• Flexible work schedules
• Concierge service
• Comprehensive benefits
• Employee resource groups